view point residence

Set along Seattle’s Magnolia Boulevard—a scenic route imagined by John Charles Olmsted in 1903—the Viewpoint Residence sits among historic homes overlooking the Salish Sea, city skyline, and Olympic Mountains. The homeowners wanted a modern home that could take in those incredible views while feeling private from the popular park below and at home beside the stately brick houses that line the bluff. The 5,725-square-foot residence includes a garage and a separate apartment, and while it draws from the traditional shapes and materials of its neighbors, it adds a contemporary twist. The form is clean and simple, with brick facades that are carefully carved back to reveal protected terraces and outdoor living spaces at each level. Low-maintenance materials like dark ironspot brick, metal siding, and aluminum panels give the home a refined and timeless look that blends durability with elegance.

Modern black brick estate with view of Mt. Rainier

Front elevation of modern brick house at dusk with concrete steps and planters

Custom steel gate at Entry to private courtyard with concrete planter

Glass front Entry with glass pivot door to modern house

Entry with koa wood bench and indoor outdoor black brick

White oak staircase with open risers and continuous black handrail

Kitchen and Dining area with white oak and marble finishes and black accents

Kitchen Island detail with white marble finish and marble range hood

Kitchen with warm sunlight and views of the Salish Sea

Long deck with cantilevered roof looking out to views of the water and Seattle

Family Room with TV and opening to deck and Dining Room

Rear elevation of modern black brick estate with trees showing fall colors

Upper stair landing with white oak cabinetry and large skylight

Primary Bathroom with soaking tub, white oak cabinets, and white marble floors and countertops

Primary Bedroom with sliding glass doors to deck and views of Salish Sea and West Seattle

Roof deck planted with sedums and opening to primary suite with west views and sun

Rear elevation of modern brick house with strips of large windows and doors

Guests arrive through a landscaped courtyard and move up to the main living spaces on the second floor or down to the garage and accessory dwelling unit. Bedrooms on the top level enjoy sweeping views of the water and mountains, while outdoor decks are tucked behind the brick walls for privacy. Inside, the home is bright and airy, with a calm palette of white oak, stone, and polished concrete. It’s also designed with sustainability in mind—deep overhangs provide shade year-round, large sliding doors and cross ventilation keep things cool, and rooftop solar panels power much of the home in the summer. Green roofs help manage stormwater and add insulation, while the thoughtful layout and materials keep things comfortable in all seasons. More than anything, the Viewpoint Residence is a celebration of place—offering a front-row seat to the ever-changing drama of the Northwest, from foggy mornings and city lights to ships passing and sunsets over the Olympics.